Booty and the Beast

Popa Chubby's major-label debut album is an inspiring set of energetic, gut-bucket blues-rock, filled with exceptional playing. Chubby has soul, even if he doesn't quite cut it as a songwriter; there aren't many songs that are inventive or memorable. But as an instrumental workout, Booty and the Beast is terrific. Using the blues as a basic foundation, Popa Chubby spins off into new directions, incorporating bits of rock and jazz to his forceful playing. His guitar playing is what makes the album a promising debut.